Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Relieving Hand and Wrist Pain
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Affecting Your Daily Life? Dr.virk is here to help.
Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway at the front of your wrist that houses the median nerve and several tendons. When the space within the carpal tunnel becomes too narrow, the median nerve can become compressed, causing a variety of symptoms.
Common Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and sometimes the ring finger
Pain or a burning sensation in the hand and wrist
Weakness in the hand, especially when gripping objects
Dropping objects
Difficulty performing fine motor tasks
Pain that may worsen at night or after prolonged use of the hand
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome typically involves a physical examination and nerve conduction studies to assess the function of the median nerve. Treatment options may include:
Non-surgical treatments:
Resting the affected hand
Splinting or bracing the wrist
Over-the-counter pain relievers
Corticosteroid injections
Physical therapy
Surgical treatment:
In severe cases, carpal tunnel release surgery may be necessary to relieve pressure on the median nerve.
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